Which term refers to differences between the sexes?

Which term refers to differences between the sexes?

• A. Sexual dimorphism
• B. Reproductive variance
• C. Species
• D. Convergent evolution

Answer: (A)

Sexual dimorphism refers to differences between males and females of the same species in size, shape, or secondary sexual traits (like plumage, horns, or body proportions). These differences often arise because males and females experience different selective pressures, such as mate competition or differing roles in reproduction, leading to distinct physical forms in the two sexes. For example, many mammal species show males larger than females, while in some birds the males have brighter plumage or elaborate displays. The other terms don’t describe differences between the sexes. Reproductive variance focuses on how successful individuals are at reproducing, not on physical differences. A species is a category in classification, not a description of sex-based differences. Convergent evolution explains unrelated species developing similar traits due to similar environments, not sex-based differences within a single species.

Sexual dimorphism refers to differences between males and females of the same species in size, shape, or secondary sexual traits (like plumage, horns, or body proportions). These differences often arise because males and females experience different selective pressures, such as mate competition or differing roles in reproduction, leading to distinct physical forms in the two sexes. For example, many mammal species show males larger than females, while in some birds the males have brighter plumage or elaborate displays.

The other terms don’t describe differences between the sexes. Reproductive variance focuses on how successful individuals are at reproducing, not on physical differences. A species is a category in classification, not a description of sex-based differences. Convergent evolution explains unrelated species developing similar traits due to similar environments, not sex-based differences within a single species.